Orlando Pirates assistant coach Mandla Ncikazi claims Olisa Ndah and Monnapule Saleng have not trained for a number of days which puts their participation in the MTN8 final in jeopardy.
Ndah and Saleng missed last Sunday’s win over Richards Bay due to injuries sustained in their midweek match at home to Polokwane City and there has been hope that they will be available for Saturday’s MTN8 final as Pirates take on Stellenbosch FC at a sold-out Moses Mabhida Stadium.
However, Ncikazi now says their availability is not certain as they have not shown positive signs during the week in what would be a worry for Pirates fans given the importance of the two players.
Will Ndah & Saleng be available for MTN8 final?
“Unfortunately, I do not have a full report. They have not trained for some days, but they are still in the medical room to pass a late fitness test so currently I am not sure because I left (for Durban),” said Ncikazi.
“There was training in the morning so I did not see training. I do not have a full medical report, but I am praying that we are in full strength to play such a difficult side.”
The duo was in good form before their injuries
It is not known if it is just mind games from Ncikazi to keep Stellenbosch guessing but head coach Jose Riveiro will want to have both of them available as they bid to become the first team to win three straight MTN8 crowns.
Ndah has been a vital cog in central defence for Pirates, and also chips in with goals from set-pieces, while winger Saleng was on form before the injury, having scored in three straight games.
